My rights when I am leaving care

If you are a care leaver, you have certain rights and entitlements from Children’s Services. This can often be confusing and lots of jargon is often used. But we can help you understand the processes, your rights and what the jargon means.

You are an "eligible child" if you are aged 16 or 17 and you are still in care.

You are a "relevant child" if you are aged 16 or 17, but you left care on or after your 16th birthday.

You are a "former relevant child" if you are aged 18 up to age 25 and you were in care on or after your 16th birthday.

You are a "qualifying care leaver" if you are aged 16–21 (up to age 25 if you're in education) and were in care for a short time on or after your 16th birthday.

If you are unsure you are a care leaver, take our easy quiz to find out if you are and what support you should get.

Questions and answers for care leavers with disabilities.

Sorted and Supported

For a full guide to your leaving care rights and entitlements, take a look at our Sorted and Supported booklet.

Download Sorted and Supported (PDF, 7MB)

My rights when I am leaving care

My rights as an eligible child

My rights as a relevant child

My rights as a former relevant child

My rights as a qualifying care leaver

Am I a care leaver?

Questions and answers for care leavers with disabilities

Sorted and Supported